A growing number of research studies indicate how screen time from television and devices continue to affect sleep patterns. The American Academy of Pediatrics have recently surveyed 2,048 grade four and grade seven students regarding their bedtimes, wake times, feelings of sleepiness and presence of smart phones, telephones and small screens in their bedrooms. The research study concluded that students who were sleeping next to a small screen or television had a shorter weekday sleep duration, as well as a later bedtime. In the classrooms and at school, the increased loss of sleep plays a significant toll on learning. Not only does the lack of sleep reduce academic performance, it can increases behavioral problems, risk unhealthy weight gain and offer negative impacts to the immunity system.

With all of this in mind, home is a great place to ensure that healthy routines and weekday bedtimes are in place. Make an effort to monitor your child’s screen time, especially in the evening before bedtime. Recharge cell phones, smartphones and screened devices in a central location in the house outside of your child’s bedrooms to ensure that your child is alert and ready to learn throughout the week at school.